GODSEND ONLINE : T
Craig Taborn - "Junk Magic" CD - A nicely adventurous set of tunes from keyboardist/composer Taborn, 'Junk Magic' incorporates and appropriates both out-jazz and hypnotic electronic/techno sounds into rhythmic hybrids that defy either genre (and then some). The title track opens with a series of blips and shuffling beats, punctuated by improv-style underpinnings. 'Shining Through' is filmic ambient jazz noir, whereas 'Prismatica' is a free jazz/hip-hop mutation that practically defines 'cool'. The closing cut, 'The Golden Age', is a harrowing and mysteriously seductive piece that approaches a sort of neo-classicism. Brilliant work! Taborn's manipulations of his band here (which includes David King on drums, violist Mat Maneri, and tenor saxophonist Aaron Stewart) are tasteful and forward-thinking. He proves that jazz is an ever-evolving beast, and by joining elements of laptop electronica and cut-up programming, he is opening parameters never before imagined. Kudos to everyone involved in this superior release! (Blue Series/Thirsty Ear)
T.A.C.-Hypnotischer Eden CD-This group has been quietly pursuing some interesting directions for the last 15 years. This 1994 album combines neo-classical dark mysticism with post-industrial sounds. A talented group deserving of recognition. (TAC/ Discordia)
T.A.C.-La Nouvelle Art-Du Devil CD-Latest album from these veteran experimenters is a dark, mystical , melodic journey that reminds of SOL INVICTUS or ORDO EQUITUM SOLIS. Excellent. (TAC/Discordia)
T.A.C.-Ouvrez Vos Auditifs Canaux CD-CD reissue of a classic 1985 LP, this one in a noisier, post-industrial vein, rather than their recent structured soundtracks. Inventive and challenging. (TAC/ Discordia)
Tactile-Inscape CD-A fine, well-measured dose of insistent, mechanical post-industrial textures, droning and mysteriously murky. Absorbing music, and at higher levels, cleansing. (Rawkus)
Tactile-Recurrence & Intervention CD-A lengthy collection of remixes from the likes of COIL, ZOVIET FRANCE, SCORN, James Plotkin, EYELESS IN GAZA, etc. Quite a remarkable array of sounds as well, ranging from dark soundscapes to deep dub to noisier post-industrial rhythmics. A brilliant release. (Rawkus)
Zeze Takahisa -"The Dream Of Garuda" DVD - Calling these Japanese 'pink cinema' films 'porn' is doing them a very grave disservice. Far from it, these low-budget, quickly-made movies have often been vehicles for young, aspiring Japanese directors to express some of their wildest ideas and concepts. As long as they include several steamy and explicit sex scenes (which 'The Dream of Garuba' has, make no mistake), they have a built-in audience and market. But these sexual situations are often secondary (rather than central) to the stories, which in Takahisa's case here, is a complex psychological thriller centering around a convicted rapist who returns from prison only to work out his personal demons and confront those who put him in his confused state. He eventually turns to murder and, finally, finds a measure of spiritual peace after his painful 'journey'. A very deep and dark film here, ripe with symbolism and shadowy undercurrents. And it must be said that the bath-house soap-and-suds scene is, uh, revelatory. An excellent film and worthy of investigation. (Screen Edge c/o Music Video Distributors)
Tangerine Dream-The Dream Mixes 2CD-An obvious attempt to fit in with the ambient/dance scene, as these tracks are remixed for club play. Retains TDs analogue spacy feel, but the remixes really arent quite up to par. (Frontline/TDI Music)
Tangerine Dream - "Madcap's Flaming Duty" CD - It's been a long and strange road for Edgar Froese's venerable synthesizer group. From pre-new age sequencer music to early ambient to Hollywood soundtracks to synth-oriented progressive rock, his ever-evolving group has broken new ground and inspired 40 years worth of electronic musicians. This new recording, dedicated to former Pink Floyd vocalist and guiding light Syd Barrett (who passed away in 2006), is a synth-prog-rock album full of melodic vocal pop. And it bears absolutely no likeness to Syd's rambling poetics. Vocalist Chris Hausl sports a rich and sonorous voice that reminds me of David Sylvian somehow, and the music is a light and pleasant enough mix of rock elements (guitar solos included) and Froese's analogue percolations. It's a nicely well done release, stylish and never imposing, though it may be a little too close to wallpaper easy-listening adult MOR rock for some tastes. (MVD Audio)
Tangerine Dream-Tournado CD-A totally live album from these electronic pioneers, Tournado s fine soundtrack-type textures counterbalance their ultra-melodic symphonic-electronic-rock sort of sound. Sure, this borders on new-age schmaltziness, but these guys really are masters at their craft, and this album is proof. A pleasant, lightweight listen. (TDI)
Tarkatak / c. reider - "The Druser Pricid" CDR - 60 minutes of ambient, abstracted somnolence from this international collaboration of artists from the US (reider) and Germany (Tarkatak). Consisting of 2 lengthy tracks, 'The Druser Pricid' is an ideal accompaniment to a lonely late night, as mysterious textures permeate the dense and amorphous mix. Track one ('Pueth Drer Cidris') seems more ambient, slowly shifting in a hazy fog of drifting moodiness. Track two ('Verdt Scepir Dhir') goes an even more freeform experimental route, with plenty of jarring noises, glitchy pops, and disembodied voices punctuating the ever-evolving noisescape. A highly rewarding and enjoyable listen for those with an ear for the darkly sublime. (Vuzh Music)
TASM Lab-Thing & Nothing CD-A sort of concept album/ rock opera from members of THOUGHT INDUSTRY and TWITCH. Despite a few decent pieces, this is pretty cheesy. (Tasm Lab)
various-Taste This 5 2xCD-A well-done sampler of bands Discordia releases and distributes. Disc A is EBM/electro hardbeat and includes APOPTYGMA BERZERK, WUMPSCUT, BLACKHOUSE, ALIEN FAKTOR, etc. Disc B is more acoustic/ambient-oriented, including KIRLIAN CAMERA, AIN SOPH, ALLERSEELEN, SHINJUKU THIEF, TEMPS PERDU? and more. (Discordia)
Tear Cermony-The Black Fruit CS-Somnolent loops and gray sound washes that explore the conscious/unconscious states. Subtle and mysterious. (Simulacra)
Tear Ceremony-"Emulsion" CD-This new CD is in reality a reissue of a very limited cassette called 'The Black Fruit', but as everything was re-recorded digitally, this is being treated as a new release of sorts. Not a problem here, as TEAR CEREMONY's material has always had a timelessness that cannot be pinned down. Much like Todd Gautrau's previous work under the TC name, 'Emulsion' is a filmic journey into a dark, somnolent haze, like a hallucinogenic lullabye. Soft sweeps of blurred sound waft through the cool, damp air. Some of this work seems a bit more structured, even melodic, as compared to more recent TEAR CEREMONY works, but the shimmering drift is intact, and perfectly palatable. (Simulacra)
Tear Ceremony-Resin CD-More great, ambient sound from T.Gautreau. Resin is a mellow and gently moody journey into foggy, slowly shifting exotic landscapes. This is the ideal disc for a late-night winding down. I cant really compare to anyone else in particular, but fans of stuff like JEFF GREINKE or VIDNA OBMANA should enjoy this. (Simulacra)
Tear Ceremony-"Film Decay" CD-Todd Gautreau's TEAR CEREMONY project has been producing this type of excellent "waking-dream" subconscious music for some time, and "Film Decay" may well be his best yet. It's a highly atmospheric journey, with narcotic drones and gentle melodies sifting through the cloudy ambient haze. But it's definitely not some cheesy post-new age drivel, as TEAR CEREMONY has shadowy undercurrents, more in line with stuff like a less tribal ZOVIET FRANCE maybe. Just a splendid album that's well worth supporting. Pure sound and pure mood. (Simulacra)
The Tear Garden-"Crystal Mass" CD-The long-awaited new work from LEGENDARY PINK DOTS members and cEVIN Key of DOWNLOAD fame begins with the wonderfully dark and melodic pop of 'Lament', which heralds a more Key-ish electronic sound to this collaboration. Other tracks return to the more familiar blending of melodic folk, Krautrock, shimmering psychedelia, modern electronic, and thunderous dub pop that fans of Ka-Spel and company are best known for. Multi-instrumentalist Martijn De Kleer contributes some violin (and beautiful guitarwork) to marvelous effect, while Key and Moore's dub-rock effects and rhythms can be felt throughout the recording. And, of course, Ka-Spel's trademark words are as literate and evocative as ever. Overall, 'Crystal Mass' has a more upbeat and spacious feel than it's predecessor, the somber 'To Be An Angel Blind' (1996). This band has a large built-in audience, so it should come as no surprise that 'Crystal Mass' should more than appease fans of both Key and the Dots. A wonderful album combining a huge number of exotic sounds and influences into a unique and accessable blend. (Nettwerk)
The Tear Garden - "Eye Spy With My Little Eye" CD - This limited compilation of tracks spans the years 1986 to present, and it showcases this group's many facets through a number of lineup changes, although there is regrettably no indication in the liner notes of exactly who performed what, when, or where. The foundation of SKINNY PUPPY's cEvin Key and the LEGENDARY PINK DOTS' frontman Edward Ka-Spel (augmented by various other members and associates of both the DOTS and PUPPY) create music that often combines Key's penchant for electronic programming with the LPDs' sense of spacy psychedelia and poetic wordplay. On one end of the spectrum, we have the analogue electronic weirdness of 'Perforated Man', obviously an early, seminal collaboration between these fine gents. And at the other end we have extended Krautrock-style jams like the 2 extracts from the 'Empathy' session--proving the improvisational skills of this group are top-notch. 'The Train To China' is a playful medieval pop song that bounces along with an almost comical tempo. 'Black Curtains' is a delicious little melodic piano gem that emphasizes the uniquely literary vision of Ka-Spel. 'The Bomb Bomb Loopapa Tribe...' even sounds like a vintage SKINNY PUPPY song, albeit with different vocals. The final track, 'Dr. Changs Tummy Rub', is the most recent (completed via post in 2002) and sort of harkens back to the earlier days, being a more electronic instrumental. Clocking in at 55 minutes, 'Eye Spy' is a most wonderful selection of fantastic sound voyages that remain as stunning and timeless as the day they were recorded. (Subconscious)
Tear Garden-To Be An Angel Blind, The Crippled Soul Divide CD-A very mellow, sad epic of an album from Key and the Dots, this time even more acoustically-oriented than previous releases. A beautiful album thats more in line with recent LPDs offerings than Keys more techno work in DOWNLOAD. (Nettwerk)
Techix - "Monosymphonic" CD - This unappealingly-named project is actually one Justin Jones of Oklahoma, and this release is an unusual and unique melding of stark classical elements and instrumentation with looser, more playful experimental and improvisational structures. The tracks, like the tribal percussion-meets-strings of 'Drumtah', evoke an air of medieval regality as well as a sort of dark, lonely moodiness. If I had to compare, I'd say that this work would appeal to fans of material like that released on labels like the now-defunct World Serpent, combining traditional sounds with more modern post-industrial leanings. Solid work that seems to function fairly well as an ambient backdrop rather than an engrossing listen. (AntiClock Records)
Tel Basta-Lickerish CD-Cool, exotic, atmospheric pop in the classic 4AD vein, with charming female vocals and a diverse musical backdrop. (Circular Reasoning/Charnel)
Televise - "Songs To Sing In A&E" CD - Helmed by former SLOWDIVE/LOWGOLD member Simon Scott, TELEVISE successfully fuses radio-ready Britpop with droney shoegazery guitarwork. Beginning with the instantly-likeable and melan-catchy 'This Is Where...', the album moves to the suave and driving single 'I Don't Know Why'. A fine and faithful cover of the classic ULTRA VIVID SCENE track 'Mercy Seat' scores them big points here, as does the 14-minute 'Never Alone', which glides and morphs into a fine and hazy cloud of chiming guitar effects and churning bass. A fine album, quite suited to fans of such swirly guitar-pop acts as COLDPLAY, SPIRITUALIZED, or RIDE. (Club AC30)
Templebeat-Mediasickness CD-The second album from this overlooked Italian group is a strong electro-dance-rock effort in the vein of the SWAMP TERRORISTS(who by the way contribute 2 remixes exclusive to this US release). A cover of DEAD OR ALIVEs 80s club hit You Spin Me Round is a highlight, keeping the spirit of the original while adding harsh guitarwork and fierce beats. (21st Circuitry)
A Ten OCLock Scholar-Hard indie noise rock that reminded me a bit of ROCKET FROM THE CRYPT or an Albini project. (Grass)
Mito Teocharis-Genese CS-Ambient electronics here, some a bit prog or new agey and overdone, but other parts, like the soundtrack to the film Grecia are excellent slices of TANGERINE DREAMlike moods. (Spharenmusik)
Terminal Choice-In the Shadow Of Death CD-Dark EBM that reminds me of LEATHER STRIP or PSYCHOPOMPS, though T.C. are more club-geared in spots and with more of a focus on sex and death. Getting better despite the cliches. (Cyberware)
Terminal Choice-Totes Fleisch CDS-Electro-sequencer EBM with another death fixation. Reminds me of early L-STRIP or other Zoth scenesters.(Cyberware)
Terminal Generation-Pop Culture Junkie CS-9 tracks of what is basically hard rock & roll with tinges of industrial and goth. Not ripe yet.(World Hate Media)
Terminal Sect-The Gun Worship EP CD-78 minutes of music by this PUPPY-influenced group, including remixes by En Esch of KMFDM, Chris Moriarty(CONTROLLED BLEEDING/BODY CLOCK), and John Bergin(TRUST OBEY). Good songs and diverse sounds, miles better than their debut CD. Rules.(None Of The Above)
Terra Ambient - "The Darker Space" CD - With mastering by Robert Rich and a name like TERRA AMBIENT, listeners know what to expect with this release, which was actually produced and composed by Jeff Nowal. 'The Darker Space' is, as implied, a moody and atmospheric set of spacious, drifting soundscapes. But 'The Darker Space' is much more percussive than others doing similar sounds...tribal drums pulse through the deep, moody ambient tracks like 'Aether', which wouldn't sound completely out-of-place on a LUSTMORD album. This gives way to 'The Glass House', which is a shimmering, crystalline blend of strings and elegant, earthy textures. 'Under Dirt X' is a haunting, ominous cut that brings to mind a foreboding alien terrain. Some marvelous, evocative work here. (Spaceformusic.com)
Terra Ambient - "The Gate" CD - This sophomore effort from Jeff Kowal's ethno-tribal ambient project is an ear and mind-opening experience from the onset. The unsettling tension of the didgeridoo-inflected opener, 'The Pilgrim's Road' is deep and highly visual in nature. 'The Gate' conjures images of an expansive landscape of misty ruins and sacred temples. Kowal's mastery of dark and light soundscapes, and of space and nuance is of world class with this release, as it is every bit as expressive and filmic as the genre's heavyweights. In short, 'The Gate' is an experience that begs for repeat listens and inspires rich, exotic, and cinematic imagery and provides an amazingly rewarding trip with acute listening. Thoroughly and unabashedly recommended. (Lotuspike)
Test Dept-Ecstasy Under Duress CD-Classic live document of their early metal-bashing days. Effective even with the fairly rough recording quality. (ROIR)
Test Dept-Materia Prima CD-Another gem uncovered/re-released by Invisible, this album documents some of this UK groups 1986-89 tours. And contrary to what you might expect, this album shows the more meditative, atmospheric side of TEST DEPT. From the didgeridoo in Landrites to the strident bagpipe opus, Pipe And Didgeridoo, to the more overt industrial-sounds of Firedance, Materia Prima covers more ground in 40 minutes than most bands do in their entire careers. Exceptional and powerful music. (Invisible)
Test Dept-Pax Brittanica CD-This several-year old album is given a US release at last. The album features the Scottish Chamber Orchestra and is an amazing and dynamic document of TEST DEPTs political critique on British imperialism. Its a powerful and percussive symphonic experience, full of tension and drama. Excellent. (Invisible)
Test Dept-Proven In Action CD-Another live document, this one recorded in Montreal in 1990. Proven shows the group in a more aggro mood, melding together their trademark intense percussion, classical sounds, and bagpipes into a fiercely political indictment. Classic and recommended. (Invisible)
Test Dept-Totality CD-Groovy electro-trance-tribal sounds from this seminal outfit. Successfully merges their classic percussiveness with modern ambient/dance synthetics. A great comeback. (Invisible)
Test Dept-Totality 1 & 2: The Mixes CD-Nine dubby/techno remixes of tracks from TEST DEPTs latest album, including a reworking by Youth from KILLING JOKE. (Invisible)
Test Dept-"Tactics For Evolution" CD-Forging their way further into the future, these early "industrial" pioneers continue to evolve, from the ethno-techno/dub of their last album, to this album's almost drum & bass sound. "Tactics" also brings a subtle air of introspectiveness into TEST DEPT's highly clubby electronic sound. They are masters of percussion, and although the drumming of their incredible stage show is absent on these studio recordings, the knack for unusual and intricate rhythms remains. This is a superb album of heavy and stylish electronic club music that succeeds and excels on all levels. (Invisible)
Thee Majesty-"Time's Up" CD-Genesis P-Orridge is joined by LORETTA'S DOLL guitarist Bryin Dall for his new post-PSYCHIC TV project. "Time's Up" is similar to Gen's recent spoken work as SPLINTER TEST for Invisible, but with Dall's gentle and sensitive electronic backdrops enhancing the moods of P-Orridge's mantric words and allegories. Longtime fans of PTV will notice some recurring themes and catchphrases that Gen recycles here and there ("Yes. Hello. Look at that picture."), but this release does manage to stand above in it's clarity and minimalist beauty. Genesis spins a tale as well as anyone, and his writing has a magick that transcends words. "Time's Up" is another fascinating and enlightening release from one of the century's greatest theoreticians/'cultural engineers', and is one of his most consistent spoken releases yet. Superb. (Order Of The Suffering Clown/World Serpent)
T.H.C.-Consenting Guinea Pig CDEP-Hard trance/ dance that ranges from pounding instrumentals to a really pretty (and poppy) slow number with guest vocals by Sarah Folkman. Includes an extended remix by Zip of BIGOD 20. (Full Contact/Fifth Colvmn)
T.H.C.-Death By Design CD-A new project from George Sarah (ex-STEREOTAXIC DEVICE). Fast, pumped- up techno/hardcore club music. (Fifth Colvmn)
Then Tingari-Then Tingari CS-Tribal percussion group that reminds me a bit of CRASH WORSHIP, but with tantalizing female voices. Pounding, primitive, aggressive, and wonderful. Watch this group.(Then Tingari)
Thinking Man-Im Alive CD-This debut from Steve Jaszkowiak(who has worked on sound for Tales From the Crypt) and Daniel Williams (ex-STEREOTAXIC DEVICE) is an impressive one. Strong electronic hardbeat that uses good songwriting skills and a definite strong sense of dynamic and subtlety. Enjoyable work and certainly a band capable of great things in the future. (Metropolis)
Various Artists- "Thirsty Ear: The Blue Series Sampler" CD - Celebrating some 6 years and 60 releases, this budget compilation showcases the innovative and experimental out-jazz label's recent works, and, without much room for debate, the future of jazz in itself. Included are the electro-exotica of Sex Mob, the late-night dub of Nils Petter Molvaer and Meat Beat Manifesto, the beat-poetry of Carl Hancock-Rux, the perky piano stylings of Eri Yamamoto, the cinematic Craig Taborn, the funky hip-hop amalgamations of Mike Ladd, Beans, and the Yohimbe Brothers, and tons more. This label has been consistently and brilliantly blurring genres as well or better than any other label out there, and this inexpensive collection ($2.98 retail) is an essential piece for anyone not already familiar with Thirsty Ear's stable of sonic architects and sound pioneers. Catch this and put your ear to the next generation of modern music. (Thirsty Ear)
This Ascension-"Sever" CD-This veteran band has been quietly producing their own twist on dark rock for some time, and this new album, produced by John A. Rivers shows a further maturation. Vocalist Dru's lovely vocals are combined with an often propulsive rock rhythm section and ethereal guitarwork that recalls classic-era CURE. One track here even shows a distinct DEAD CAN DANCE influence, but THIS ASCENSION's sound is unmistakeably their own, and easily capable of transcending the 'gothic' genre. An enjoyable release with solid songwriting and production, 'Sever' would make a welcome addition to any 'Heavenly Voices' fan. (Tess)
Thomasius,Jorg-Marmor CD-Jittery analogue keyboard playfulness in the German improv vein. Runs the gamut from post-industrial decomposition to chattering, cartoonish weirdness.(Raum 312/ Anomalous)
Thread-"In Sweet Sorrow" CD-Another step up for James Izzo's THREAD, who has made some very impressive associations lately with this and his recent COIL remix 7" on the Brainwashed label. This 37-minute, 6-song EP includes 4 versions of the gorgeous title song, all including the lovely vocals of Jarboe, who adds another dimension to the sound with her strong, sensuous presence. Musically, 'In Sweet Sorrow' is a sort of ambient pop sound, easily likened to stuff like DELERIUM maybe (though with more of a modern experimental techno feel). The versions/mixes all maintain the sort of tragic feel of the song and melody, but jump in for some interesting rhythmic variations, some more ambient and others more crunchy or techno-ish. The 2 other tracks included here, 'Sorrowgazer' and 'Rain', are evocative instrumental slices of moody electronic ambient sound, with softly melodic (piano on the former) and rhythmic underpinnings. Simply a stunning release, proving that THREAD has a very bright future and Jarboe can do no wrong herself. More, please! (Sensory Expansion Media)
Thread-"The Need For A Sky" CD-This 1994-1998 anthology of tracks by James M.I. (aka THREAD) shows a wide vocabulary of musical styles and sounds, from harsh and fairly sinister heavy-beat electronic tracks to more depth-charged and spacious techno. This is a solid collection of instrumental electronic work that would fit in quite well next to your APHEX or LASSIGUE BENDTHAUS collections. He even tosses in traces of electropop and ambient textures, and successfully avoids any sort of commercial feel in the mix. This is simply a standout piece of work that deserves attention. (Sensory Expansion Media)
3D House Of Beef-"Similar Attack Pattern" CD-This Washington-based band brings a harsh brew of electronics and big metallic guitars on this remix album, which includes notable mixes by 16 VOLT, SCAR TISSUE, DEATHLINE INT'L, LEECHWOMAN, and INSILICO. Other tracks like "Abate" and "Brittle" showcase 3DHOB's normal sound, which is a hard guitar/grind rock sort of thing. The remixes genesplice electronic sequences and effects into the rock din, and in the process, make 3DHOB's whole sound much more palatable. A strong release for fans of crossover electronic rock. (3DHOB)
various-Thugs & Kisses CD-16 exclusive and unreleased tracks by some of Americas premier electro/rock acts, including PENAL COLONY, 16 VOLT, ACUMEN, SKREW, CHEMLAB, KILLING FLOOR, and more. Nothing here is weak and theres lots of great, aggro songs by some up & coming hardbeat acts. The strongest comp yet from Chase & Re-Con.(Re-Constriction)
Thymikon-Nipsis CD-A professional and overall excellent disc of instrumental electronic soundtracks, with a variety of textures and tempos. THYMIKONs dark passages are influenced heavily by the Orthodox Eastern Church, and a cathedralesque quality shines thru (think WILL in spots). A great collision of modern electronica and traditional/ neoclassical soundtrack sounds. (Logistikon)
Asmus Tietchens-Das Vieh Und Sein Vater CD-A collection of comp tracks from this great German sound composer/sculptor whos been a very influential but low-profiled member of the experimental music scene. This release compiles 18 now-rare tracks ranging from 1981 thru 1995, and works as a fine primer to the mans past work which mixes musique concrete collage techniques with post-industrial ambience and abstraction. A unique and visual experience thats quite recommended. (Realization)
Timonium-"Suspende Animation" CD-A solid album from this San Fran quartet who takes aspects of bands like GALAXIE 500 and LOW and spin their own take on that whole ultra-quiet sound, with mixed results. TIMONIUM seems to lack the developed sense of melody and personal introspectiveness that gives the aforementioned acts such esteem. However, seeing as this band seems to be an on-off pastime of members of other bands, there is certainly room to grow. (Pehr)
Tindersticks-Tindersticks CD-Unusually literate narrative rock in the same vein as NICK CAVE or LEONARD COHEN. This one really grew on me.(Island)
Tinfed-Hypersonic-Hyperphonic CD-After a coupla years off, this Californian band regroups and this 9-song EP is the result. Strong rock with electronics in the same vein as FILTER or DIATRIBE, and easily better than their previous CD. (Re-Constriction)
T.M.O.R.o. - "Something To Look Forward To 1" CDS - This 3-track, 12-minute single of instrumental work by electronic duo THE MATH OF REFLECTION is an appealing mix of heavier rhythmic electronic percolations and simple melodic elements, like a kind of post-industrial synthpop. 'GreaterThen' is a highly accessable track with solid programming and production, and the following cuts are similar. Well-done and more than listenable songs here, if a bit nondescript. (Desperate Diagram)
Toe 2000-"Toe 2000" CD-Exploratory and organic rock vibes from Chicago's David Pavkovic and friends (including 2 members of TORTOISE and Japanese blues diva Yoko Noge). TOE 2000 (especially on the track "Stick") summons the ghost of CAN with their blending of traditional rhythmic jazz/rock stylings and experimental sound fusion. Noge intones her dadaistic ramblings in both Japanese and English, and the bed of music combines mild electronic drones and tones with percussive semi-tribal rhythms in a very loose and free jam sort of improvised context. Fans of stuff like TORTOISE or other similar forward-thinking bands need to hear this. Excellent work. (Truckstop)
To Live and Shave In L.A.-Vedder, Vedder, Bedwetter CD-Obnoxious and unnecessary lo-fi noise. Nothing more to it.(Fifth Colvmn)
Tonart-Funf CD-Three electronic composers join to create this experimental monster using only their voices, altered and processed into an abrasive stew of rhythmic clatterings and near-industrial chaos.(Off Scale)
Torch Song-Toward The Unknown Region CD-Dubby ambient techno grooves and filmic textures constructed by William Orbit, Rico Conning, and Laurie Mayers distant vocalizations. (Discovery)
Tortoise - "A Lazarus Taxon" 3xCD/DVD - A supremely-packed boxset of odds, ends, remixes, compilation nuggets, and unreleased material from this revolving Chicago group, 'A Lazarus Taxon' is a necessary collection for those interested to see the evolution of band who's almost singlehandedly coined the term 'post-rock'. From their earlier indie-rock work like the 'Gamera' to their electronic dabblings ('To Day Retrieval' and 'Adverse Camber', both remixed by the inimitable Autechre) to their later free jazz-fusion work, Tortoise have been breaking down genres and cutting their own path through musical worlds since 1994. Packed with funky Krautrock grooves, experimental sound manipulations, ambient studio trickery, and masterful live improv playing, Tortoise create otherworldly out-jazz/rock/dub grooves that conjure images of everything from gritty urban landscapes to exotic island-tribes, all the while remaining instrumental and non-reliant on any lyrical or verbal baggage. Discs 1 and 2 are collections of comp tracks and unreleased versions, while disc 3 is a reissue of the long out-of-print 'Rhythms, Resolutions, And Clusters' remix album, plus a previously-lost-and-therefore-unreleased remix of 'Cornpone Brunch' by indie/punk icon Mike Watt. The final disc is a DVD featuring a selection of live clips, TV appearances, art films, promo videos, and bootleg footage that shows a band never in stasis. A beautiful set of innovative sounds that effectively sums up all that is free and open about music. (Thrill Jockey)
Various Artists - "Tracks And Fields" 2xCD - This comprehensive and exhausting sampler from Olympia, Washington's Kill Rock Stars label is a very mixed bag. Covering everything from jangly folk to proto-punk to weird electronic experiments to cringeworthy SLEATER-KINNEY-style indie pop, 'Tracks And Fields' may annoy you in spots, but there are also gems that emerge from among the 43 previously unreleased cuts. Standouts include CYNTHIA DALL's backwoods folk, XIU XIU's emotive live take on 'clowne towne', THE BUFF MEDWAYS (aka Billy Childish and friends) raw garage punk of 'Pink 14', BROOKE's sensitive 'Inside Out', the powerful 'Amplifier (live)' by JUCIFER, ALASKA's wispy 'R U Listenin', SONIC YOUTH (performing as MALE SLUT)'s goofy noise romp, DEVENDRA BANHART's 'Poughkeepsie' demo, SAHARA HOTNIGHTS' energetic cover of the RAMONES 'Rockaway Beach', and DEAD MEADOW's woozy and psychedelic 'Golden Cloud (acoustic)'. All told, some fine indie rock and pop sounds, and enough to make this one worth a closer look. (Kill Rock Stars)
Tragic Bath-Blue Swamp CD-Cloudy nocturnal mists of neo-ambient sounds that wash over the ears like ghosts. Reverbed-out soundscapes that resemble the early industrial soundtrack/ ambient work of bands like CAB VOLT or TG. (Under The Veil)
Trance-Augury CD-A more moody soundtrack-type offering from Mason Jones this time. Its a nicely-varied combination of neo-classical influence (ala early COIL) and experimental touches. Easily TRANCEs best yet. (Charnel Music)
Transitional-"Not Even the Most Condescending Form Of Noblesse Oblige" CDEP-This 4-song EP by Seattle-based TRANSITIONAL begins with 'Remission Impossible'--a spiky rock track with female vocals that recalls classic 80s no-wave/new wave. Other tracks also echo this influence--a melodic rock sound augmented with 80s-style synth waves and shouted punk-style vocals. Certainly well-done stuff, though I have a hard time getting past the dated sound. (Pehr)
The Trans Megetti-"Fading Left To Completely On" CD-10 tracks of driving and melodic rock from this Jersey-area quartet. THE TRANS MEGETTI's abrasive and loud power pop is brimming to the top with heavy-duty discordant guitars and powerful drumming, all anchored by a sturdy and muscular bass sound. Vocalist Mark Tesi's maniacal shrill is energetic and distinctive, making this a band to watch if no-nonsense, pose-free heavy-yet-accessable-rock is your ticket. (Gern Blandsten Records)
Transmisia-Frigid Prose CD-Quite a massive overhaul for these Croatian noise-rockers. This collection, produced, mixed, and reinterpreted by Mick Harris and Eraldo Bernocchi (of SIGILLUM S), moves light years beyond their previous album, Dumbshow. Harris and Bernocchi add touches of SCORNish dub and experimental noise to the bands drum-machine/ guitar aggro rock, transforming it into a highly experimental, atmospheric, and powerful set of post-rock songs. A great album. (Invisible)
Trans UK-"Trans UK" CD-The music of Trans UK (actually just German composer Uwe Kogel) traverses the garden of prog-style electronic music, with a slight dash of jazz. Kogel's compositions are well-produced and idiosyncratic, referring much to the classic German synth-rock styles of the 70s. Readers of GODSEND could even compare to mid-period CONTROLLED BLEEDING (circa "Songs From The Drain" and "Gilded Chambers") as the influences are similar. His complex arrangements just lose me, though, and this stuff strikes me as just plain dated. (Science Music)
various-Trenton Avante Garde Festival CS-A brief collection of experimental sounds, ranging from cutup collages to whimsical cartoon orchestras to atonal post-industrial pieces. A good listen. (IMMP)
Trial Of The Bow-Rite Of Passage CD-Amazing and thoroughly beautiful ethno-tribal music, with great production. A moody masterpiece for fans of stuff like DEAD CAN DANCE and MUSLIMGAUZE. (Release)
TriAna-The Color of Sound CD-Synthpop-oriented electro music thats probably a little too light for most industrial listeners, but those yearning for a return to the classic early 80s feel of bands like 242 or even YELLO should find sustenance in TriAna. (TriLab)
Tribes Of Neurot-Silver BloodTransmission CD-Experimental atmospheres and abstracted noise from members of NEUROSIS.(Release)
The Trinity Project - "The Subtle Movements Of The Entropy Engine" CD - Featuring members of EGO LIKENESS and ECHOMATRIX, this 12-track selection shows a more film-oriented electronic side. It all begins with the effectively spaced-out TANGERINE DREAM-scape journey of the 20-minute title track, which soon evolves into a driving-yet-introspective space-rock track with guitars and shuffling, funky rhythms. Later tracks range from the curiously personal spoken words of Donna Lynch on '50 Longitude, 85 Latitude', to downtempo trip-hop/darkwave pop. THE TRINITY PROJECT specialize in shifting, amorphous clouds of hallucinogenic visual sound. And there's a personal sort of poignancy here, as well--a sorrow that emanates from the ever-shifting clouds of moody ambience. A lovely album and a refreshingly humanistic electronic journey. (Angelfall Studios)
Trust Obey-Fear And Bullets CD-Originally released as part of a package that also included the graphic novel of The Crow, this CD is now released on its own, independent of the book. Overpowering rhythms and crushing guitars ala GODFLESH and concluding with some nicely bleak COIL-esque soundscapes. (Fifth Colvmn)
Trust Obey-Hands of Ash CD-After much delay, John Bergins band makes its post-nothing Records debut. 7 long tracks of aggro-guitar-grind that could be mistaken for GODFLESH theyre so similar. Despite its derivative nature, this is still a powerful release. (Fifth Colvmn)
Turbulence - "I Believe" CD - A sort of surprise here, coming from Ryan Moore's experimental/dub-oriented M Records. TURBULENCE presents a full album of more commercial-aimed rasta-dancehall reggae, with guest appearances by Sly & Robbie, among others. Beginning with the reverential 'Selassie Interlude', this 12-track release moves along thru upbeat party-toasting to sincere soul/lovesongs with enthusiasm and warmth. (M Records)
Turk Knifes Pope-"Performance Crippling Data Restriction" CD-One long 70-minute track of distant drones and metallic reverberations, sounding not dissimilar to the classic 1980s collaborative work of David Jackman and Steven Stapleton. TURK KNIFES POPE create rich, evocative, and (mostly) organic-sounding landscapes with depth and restraint. Halfway through the disc a series of horrific electronic crashes punctuates the seething ambiance, reminding you that this is definitely not passive listening, nor is it "ambient". Liked it. (Zenflesh)
various-21st Circuitry Shox CD-a 5-year anniversary sampler of 21Cs roster, including cuts from almost all their releases, plus an unreleased XORCIST track. Plenty of strong electro-rock/hardbeat, with names like HATE DEPT, STERIL, SCAR TISSUE, and GRACIOUS SHADES. A great comp and cohesive collection. (21st Circuitry)
Twilight Circus Dub Sound System-"Volcanic Dub" CD-Ryan Moore has been crafting his own old-school instrumental dub for years now, and his skills as a producer and composer are well-established. 'Volcanic Dub' is as sturdy a dub as you'll likely hear in this lifetime, conjuring the vibes of all the Jamaican-or-otherwise greats--King Tubby, Mad Professor, Augustus Pablo, Lee 'Scratch' Perry, or the On-U Sound posse. Most impressive is the fact that Ryan plays, writes, and produces all of his tracks himself. Moore's TWILIGHT CIRCUS tracks rumble with a fat bottom-end, and traces of modern electronic effects can be picked up by astute ears, but the overall sound remains true to the classic dub heritage, with Ryan's live drums and bass leading the way. However, I find myself wishing Ryan would expand his sound somewhat, like what he started, then abandoned, on his 'Horsie' CD. As great as this work is, I can't help but feel there's so much more potential than his recreation of great dancehall dub. Still, taken for what it is, 'Volcanic Dub' is a superb release, one that is as timeless and every bit as good as his previous work. Everyone should have some classic dub in their collection, and 'Volcanic Dub' fits that bill more than perfectly. (M Records)
Twilight Ritual-Organic CD-Mellow darkwave pop/rock with tribal influences--surprisingly a project of Chrismar Chatell(A SPLIT SECOND). Several strong songs here. (Subtronic)
Twill-Good Evening.. CS-An off-kilter mishmash of weird, hallucinogenic sounds, from neo-funk to experimental sound collage. Brings to mind early CAB VOLTAIRE kinda. (IMMP)
Twill-"Twill" CDR-EP-A collection of brief electronic vignettes, 'Twill' has hands in both the more experimental/noise scene as well as touching on more structured, soundtrack-esque moods. The combination is often unpredictable and ear-jarring as the tracks easily move from gratingly noisy textures to delicate piano tones. A finely-honed sense of humor is evident from such track titles as 'Love My Doo' and 'You Druid!', but ultimately, this is silly, whimsical, noodly, and pretty scattered work. (Mirandette Popular)
Various - "Twin Cities Electropunk Volume 2" CD - Compiled by AVENPITCH's Todd Millenacker, this 16-band sampler encompasses a wide array of sounds, and proves that Minneapolis has a vibrant new music scene going. From TELEPHONE!'s nu-wave electroclash 'Elevator Operator', (which is simultaneously charming and annoying) to UBER COOL KUNG FU's excellent, anthemic, and catchy electropop/punk-flavoured 'Stand Together', this comp has it's share of strong points and low moments. STELLAR VECTOR's track--with an aggressive and heavy guitar rock stance--easily leaves most of modern FM radio's acts far behind. THE EIGHTH DAY's female-fronted 'Doubt' is another worthwhile standout, as is the ambient/drum & bass-inspired ENDLESS BLUE (again with lovely female vox). This collection, which can be found as a free download at the below website, has much to offer and if at least one of these acts doesn't break, I'll be surprised. (www.tcelectropunk.com)
various-Tyranny Off The Beat CD-Sampler of 9 Euro-hardbeat acts, including HAUJOBB and a FLA remix of PROJECT PITCHFORK. Other cuts range from horrid electro-pop to the usual sequencer-driven Euro-tech.(Cleopatra)